Atlantic City

Situated on the southern New Jersey coastline, and the East Coast’s version of Las Vegas, Atlantic City used to be a popular beach resort in the late 19th century, with exclusive hotels and guesthouses catering to wealthy residents and summer visitors. In 1870, the first boardwalk was built along a section of beach to help keep sand out of hotel entrances, and this idea grew so much so that today’s boardwalk just over 4 miles long, and houses many of the city’s casinos. But after World War 2, better transport links with other resorts on the East Coast saw Atlantic City go into decline. It was in 1977 that the state of New Jersey approved the construction of casinos to halt the city’s degeneration, and it is now very much a popular tourist spot.

Attractions

Almost all visitors come to try their luck at the numerous casinos, which are open 24 hours a day. Remember to bring identification as 21 is the minimum age for entry onto the gambling floor. Like Las Vegas, Atlantic City has themed casinos, such as Wild West and Mardi Gras to name a few, but inside they more or less have the same slot machines, flashing lights, and colourful carpets. Another point to note is that many of the casinos double up as hotels and so casino hotel packages can be a cost-effective means for accommodation. Some of the best-known casinos include Caesars, Trump Plaza, and Trump’s Taj Mahal.

For non-gamblers, there are other attractions on offer. The Atlantic City Fishing Centre charters out boats for fishing, scuba diving, and cruises. The Civil Rights Garden has sculptures that have inscriptions relating to the history and events of the Civil Rights Movement. Atlantic City’s Historical Museum offers an insight into the city’s past through photographs and artefacts. The city’s Ocean Life Centre gives an educational experience in marine science through aquariums and interactive exhibits. A final place well worth a visit is Absecon Lighthouse, the tallest of New Jersey’s lighthouses, which allows people to climb its 228 steps and take in magnificent views from the top.

Shopping

Atlantic City has many shopping options for visitors, from the boardwalk where one can buy taffy (candy), fudge, and tourist souvenirs, to casinos and outlet malls that sell well-known brands.

Nightlife and Eating Out

The boardwalk offers travellers cheap sandwich and pizza shops, and some casinos offer lunch or dinner all-you-can-eat buffets at reasonable prices. For something a bit more upmarket, Le Palais has the city’s best French cuisine, and Los Amigos serves American south western and traditional Mexican dishes. One more recommendation is Brûlée, Atlantic City’s finest dessert-only establishments.

A lot of bars and nightclubs are located within the casino and hotel complexes themselves. Some of the better-known ones include Casbah at Trump’s Taj Mahal, Missile Bar at the Tropicana casino, and The Wave, located at Trump Marina.

Tourist Information

Airport

Atlantic City has its own international airport, served by international carriers from Europe and Asia, and is also served by domestic airlines. Many travellers choose to fly into New York or Philadelphia, the largest cities in the area, and a Greyhound bus takes 3 hours to get to Atlantic City from New York, and an hour and a half from Philadelphia.